First US Ski Resorts Open
26th October 2025
Last modified on October 31st, 2025
Keystone in Colorado was first out of the blocks as it opened some terrain on Saturday. Arapahoe Basin, also in Colorado, followed on Sunday. UPDATED
Under blue skies the resort of Keystone was the first resort in North America to offer skiing and snowboarding.
Much of the snow was man-made, with the snow guns fired up earlier this month.
It opened on Saturday afternoon shortly after its neighbour, Arapahoe Basin, announced it was opening on Sunday.
Keystone made the announcement at 13.30 and was open by 15.oo, meaning it was the first resort in the USA to open.
The last time it took that accolade was in 1997.
The resort offered more than two miles of groomed terrain on the Schoolmarm and Silver Spoon trails.
Keystone’s slopes were open into the early evening under floodlights.
“We’re thrilled to kick off the season here at Keystone with over two miles of skiing and riding,” said Keystone Resort Vice President and General Manager, Shannon Buhler.
“We know how much this moment means to our employees and community, and our team has poured their hearts into creating an incredible early opening celebration.
“We’re just excited to be back on snow!”
Sunday saw Keystone’s first full day of operations from 9am to 4pm.
Keystone’s snowmaking team will continue working around the clock to make snow whenever weather allows, expanding early season terrain as quickly as possible
In Arapahoe Basin, The Black Mountain Express opened on Sunday giving access to High Noon, a blue-mountain run.
It was open from 8.20am to 4.00pm.
Arapahoe Basin Opening Day. Image c/o Colorado Ski Country USA.
Arapahoe Basin Opening Day. Image c/o Colorado Ski Country USA.
There were first-come-first-serve donuts, free stickers and a local DJ spinning some tunes.
Arapahoe Basin Opening Day. Image c/o Colorado Ski Country USA.
“Crisp alpine air set the tone for another classic Colorado opening, with eager early risers gathering at the base to claim first chair,” said a statement from Colorado Ski Country USA.
“The crowds showed up in style, wearing costumes and soaking in the festive vibes. Early risers fueled by their ‘carpark cuisine’ at the crack of dawn were among the first to hit the slopes.”
Arapahoe Basin Opening Day. Image c/o Colorado Ski Country USA.
Arapahoe Basin Opening Day. Image c/o Colorado Ski Country USA.
Arapahoe Basin Opening Day. Image c/o Colorado Ski Country USA.
Arapahoe Basin Opening Day. Image c/o Colorado Ski Country USA.
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